Position-by-Position Look at 2025 Eagles Defense Before Free Agency
The NFL offseason kicks into high gear early next week with the start of free agency, when the negotiating window opens on Monday at noon. The new league year will officially begin on Wednesday at 4 p.m. According to OverTheCap, the Philadelphia Eagles are projected to have just under $22 million in cap space when the league year begins. While they aren’t expected to be major players in free agency this year, the Eagles still need to address some key positions to maintain their competitive edge.
Edge Rusher
Under contract: Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, Bryce Huff, KJ Henry, Ochaun Mathis
Pending free agents: Josh Sweat, Brandon Graham
Need level: High
The edge rusher position could see significant changes this offseason. Josh Sweat, who had an outstanding Super Bowl LIX performance and finished second in MVP voting, may leave via free agency if his market develops as expected. The Eagles are also waiting to hear if 36-year-old Brandon Graham, their veteran presence, will continue to play. If Sweat leaves and Graham retires, the Eagles will be short on depth at this crucial position. Nolan Smith, who was their best edge rusher for most of the season, and Jalyx Hunt, a promising rookie who showed improvement, will be key returnees. However, Bryce Huff’s first year in Philadelphia was disappointing, leaving the Eagles with limited options beyond Smith and Hunt. The Eagles might need to use a high draft pick here or explore free agency, where players like Baron Browning, Azeez Ojulari, and even a potential reunion with Haason Reddick could be viable options. The big names, Myles Garrett and Trey Hendrickson, could also be considered, though a trade would be complex.
Defensive Tackle
Under contract: Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Thomas Booker IV, Byron Young, Gabe Hall
Pending free agents: Milton Williams
Need level: Medium
Milton Williams, a key free agent for the Eagles, is coming off a career year that included a 2-sack performance in the Super Bowl. At just 25, Williams is poised to command a significant contract, making it unlikely he will return to Philadelphia. Despite this, the Eagles have a solid foundation with Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, both of whom are emerging as top talents. Moro Ojomo could also see an expanded role. While the Eagles may look to add depth, they will likely be cautious with their cap space. Players like Javon Hargrave, who is now 32 and recovering from a torn triceps, could be affordable options. Additionally, the 2025 draft class is expected to be strong, which could influence the Eagles’ strategy in free代理.
Linebacker
Under contract: Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Dallas Gant
Pending free agents: Oren Burks, Ben VanSumeren (ERFA)
Need level: Low-medium
The Eagles signed Zack Baun to a three-year, $51 million contract this week, addressing their top offseason priority. Baun was the NFL’s best linebacker in 2024 and a key player on the league’s best defense. However, Nakobe Dean, who is rehabilitating from a torn patellar tendon, may not be available at the start of the 2025 season. Oren Burks, who stepped in during the playoffs, is also set to become a free agent. While the Eagles may feel confident with Jeremiah Trotter Jr. in his second NFL season, his limited experience means they might need a backup plan. Bringing back the 30-year-old Burks on a one-year deal could be a cost-effective solution, as he provides both defensive and special teams value.
Cornerback
Under contract: Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, Eli Ricks, Parry Nickerson, A.J. Woods
Pending free agents: Isaiah Rodgers, Avonte Maddox
Need level: Low-medium
The Eagles have a promising young core of cornerbacks, with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean excelling in their rookie seasons. Both players are expected to build on their strong performances. However, the release of Darius Slay and the free agency of Isaiah Rodgers leave some uncertainty. There’s a possibility Rodgers could return, depending on market conditions. Kelee Ringo, entering his third year, also provides depth and experience. The Eagles will need to monitor the free agent market and possibly draft another cornerback to ensure depth and competition.
Safety
Under contract: Reed Blankenship, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Tristin McCollum, Sydney Brown, Andre’ Sam, Lewis Cine, Tariq Castro-Fields
Pending free agents: n/a
Need level: Low
The safety position is relatively stable, with both starters, Reed Blankenship and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, returning for the 2025 season. Tristin McCollum and Sydney Brown also remain under contract, with Brown looking to reclaim his position after recovering from an ACL tear. Despite Avonte Maddox’s pending free agency, he was primarily a cornerback by the end of the 2024 season. The depth at safety includes Lewis Cine, a wildcard who was added in January, and Tariq Castro-Fields, who offers special teams value. The Eagles seem well-prepared in this area, though they may look for additional depth in the draft.
Conclusion
As the Eagles prepare for the 2025 season, they face a mix of opportunities and challenges. While they have solid foundations at several positions, key free agency decisions and the potential to draft high-impact players will shape their defensive unit. The edge rusher and defensive tackle positions are top priorities, while linebackers and cornerbacks require careful management to maintain depth and competition. With their strategic approach to free agency and the draft, the Eagles aim to build a defense that can continue to be a cornerstone of their success.
